Special means of monitoring traffic on the road are constantly being improved and are gaining more and more effective opportunities for fixing violations. The traditional protocol design approach is giving way to so-called happiness letters with fines that no motorist is safe from. At least this applies to drivers who do not use the same hardware to counter technical speed recorders. In this case, the SilverStone F1 Monaco system is considered available to a wide range of consumers. Reviews about this radar are diverse, but in general, users highly appreciate the quality of its work.
Appearance and ergonomics
The design of the device has a classic form factor, albeit with some original lines. But even more many users are surprised by the unusual instrument control configuration. The fact is that the main range of functions is controlled using a group of 4 buttons located on the surface of the case. They take on almost complete tools, with the exception of the on / off task. This command is assigned to the volume control. As for the quality of the materials, the SilverStone F1 Monaco radar detector is enclosed in a solid plastic case. It looks solid and even with a touch of premium, although the device is a representative of a class close to the budget. The surface of the plastic itself is matte, which is a good solution for the device located on the central panel.
Equipment
The device has a standard configuration, as it should be inexpensive radars. Another thing is that it is due to additional support that many Chinese manufacturers are striving to break into the higher level segment. In this case, the set of accessories is consistent with the status of SilverStone F1 Monaco. Reviews note only the quality of the complete devices. For example, together with the radar, two fixation mechanisms are delivered immediately - for the windshield and the panel. And according to many owners, both devices as clamps are not showing their best. Therefore, it is recommended to initially replace both Velcro and glass fasteners with more reliable installation systems. In addition, the kit also includes a USB cable, manual and power adapter. The device is designed for connection to the cigarette lighter.
Detector specifications
Again, despite belonging to the segment of affordable equipment, the technical basis is organically combined in its performance indicators with a rather high level of performance of the device, which its appearance also hints at. First of all, customer reviews of the SilverStone F1 Monaco model note a wide range of work with most high-speed traffic police registrars. But not only this unit deserves attention. Other characteristics also inspire confidence of motorists:
- The laser signal index is a spectrum from 800 to 1100 nm.
- Receiver visibility - 360 °.
- The radiation range K is from 24 050 to 24 250 MHz.
- The radiation range X is from 10 475 to 10 575 MHz.
- The number of detection levels is 3.
- The current consumption is 225 mA.
- Suitable operating temperatures are from -20 to 70 ° C.
- Mass - 121 gr.
In terms of functionality, the model also does not provide grounds for its inclusion in the list of outsiders of the segment. The device is provided with a complete list of standard features, including displaying information, adjusting brightness and volume, voice notification, etc. From the point of view of operability, it is important to note the variety of modes. The device supports automatic transition to parameters optimal for operation in urban conditions and on the highway. To this, it is worth adding the possibility of operation with the disconnection of individual ranges.
Technological features
The intensive development of high-end detector models sometimes makes it pointless to stay on the market for some budget devices, which in their effectiveness cannot even come close to technological counterparts. Monaco developers tried to avoid this and provided the receiver not only with basic functionality, but also, due to their capabilities, kept the technological bar set by expensive modern detectors. This is evidenced by the presence of a GPS module, and the latest protection against radio emission traps. For example, the VG-2 system eliminates the risk of detecting SilverStone F1 Monaco. The reviews indicate that this module makes the receiver invisible for most specialized direction finders. Another thing is that advanced police developments in some regions and this format of protection make it ineffective. As for the protection against accidental radio interference in a city, the automatic operation mode of the Smart receiver will help. In this case, the system without the participation of the driver adjusts the interference filtering mechanism for specific driving conditions, also adjusting the sensitivity of the radar function.
Instrument Installation
As noted above, the developers have provided two mounting options - on the windshield and dashboard. In the first case, the assembly of three components is implemented. First you need to assemble the mounting bracket and Velcro, and then fix the structure on the glass. Next, proceed to the installation of SilverStone F1 Monaco. Reviews recommend immediately providing for a cable connection, otherwise further manipulations will violate the original position of the receiver. The second option involves fixing the Velcro to the dashboard. Before installation, you should clean, rinse and dry the surface, which will provide a more reliable adhesion of the Velcro to the panel coating. The protective film is removed from the Velcro, after which it is attached to the prepared surface. Then the radar itself is installed on the lower part of the structure. In both cases, it is advisable to avoid sticking the model serial number.
Detection efficiency
The model optimally works with the signals of stationary cameras, notifying the driver in advance and with a high degree of accuracy. In this mode, the voice prompt system is also best manifested. Also, unlike entry-level radars, this device stably informs about stop-band cameras that are located at traffic lights. In general, at short distances and in the city, confident and clear work on detection is demonstrated - the reviews themselves also speak about this. SilverStone F1 Monaco in such conditions does not even require special settings for ranges, but the situation changes as you move away from heavy traffic. As for the X and K bands, the system fixes them, but with it false signals also appear. At a minimum, you should prepare for the uneven operation of the receiver. In addition, many note the almost complete disregard for the KRIS police complex. It is possible to rely on the calculation of this installation at a distance of about 400 m, but this is unlikely to be enough for an operational change in the speed mode.
Positive reviews
Be that as it may, a wide range of settings compensates for flaws in working with individual high-speed recorders. Beginners in this regard rely on automation, and experienced car owners skillfully save themselves by manually cutting off unnecessary spectra and amplifying target signals. Along with this, support for the GPS navigation module is also noted, thanks to which it is possible to assess in advance the risks of meeting certain types of road cameras. General ergonomics also significantly distinguishes the SilverStone F1 Monaco radar detector. Reviews positively characterize both external controls and a convenient menu layout, as well as correct voice notifications with good voice acting.
Negative reviews
Most claims are made to the fastening system. The bracket locks too tightly. On the one hand, the usefulness of such mechanics is noted, since this guarantees the reliability of the installation. But on the other hand, forceful attempts to remove it can lead to damage to the fastener system itself and damage to the glass with the panel. The flickering of the display, which is equipped with the SilverStone F1 Monaco radar, is also noted. Reviews of this error are less common, but the actual monochrome screen may well be considered a concession to competitor models. However, it is worth talking about rivals in the market separately.
Competitors models
The main competitor of this model is considered to be the X-COP 8500 from Neoline, although it has much more weaknesses. It is enough to note a low level of noise immunity and a low level of detection range. Nevertheless, these shortcomings are compensated by a rich base with camera installation points. Another interesting model of this segment is the Whistler 439ST. This option is distinguished by the coordinated interaction of the GPS navigation module and the radar part, which allows you to fix even modern models of high-speed robot locks. Just in this ability, the SilverStone F1 Monaco radar detector noticeably loses, reviews of which also mention false signals in a large percentage.
Conclusion
In the middle segment of radar detectors with price tags of up to 10 thousand rubles. It is difficult to find a device that could meet all the requirements of a modern motorist. Even if we restrict ourselves solely to requests regarding the detection of police cameras on the road, then full coverage of all threats with one device will not be possible. Of course, this applies to the current level of technological development of low-cost devices of this type. Nevertheless, in terms of the combination of operational qualities, you can put a rather high estimate on the SilverStone F1 Monaco receiver. Reviews, review and specifications testify to the practicality of this accessory, its reliability and functional balance. To this is also worth adding a low price tag, which is 5.5-6 thousand. By the way, the models considered above from competitive manufacturers are available for 6-7 thousand, although they do not have significant advantages over the SilverStone radar. Only separate functional advantages stand out, but the detector in question has its trump cards.